Astronauts Play Soccer Onboard The ISS

Astronauts on the ISS are clearly excited about the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. As a unique way to show support and wish luck to the teams, they kicked around the soccer ball in the zero gravity environment.

Astronauts on the ISS are clearly excited about the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil.

As a unique way to show support for the teams, the astronauts wanted to make it known they’re fans and that they’ll be watching the games from the International Space Station. Reid Wiseman and Steve Swanson of the US and German astronaut Alexander Gerst delivered a verbal message to players. They also showcased their own mastery with a soccer ball.

The guys kicked the ball to one another and even flipped upside a few times. Keep in mind the astronauts were doing this in zero gravity, or essentially slow motion, and their makeshift soccer game is quite impressive considering how well they managed to control and pass the ball.

Their home countries will be playing against each other on June 26th in Brazil for an opportunity to advance out of the group stage and into the Round of 16 of the World Cup matches.

"Have fun. Play hard and we'll be watching on the International Space Station." [Via NASA]